Brass Bonanza

Susan Slaughter may have retired from her position as the principal trumpet for the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra, but she still plays a role in the shaping of the SLSO's sound. Vanessa Fralick won the 2010 Susan Slaughter International Solo Brass Competition at the International Women's Brass Conference, and is now the acting principal trombonist for the SLSO. Fralick's current geographic location means she can participate in the Holiday Brass Concert, which is the main fundraiser for the IWBC — full circle! The 24-year-old trombonist has been universally lauded for her firm and expressive tone, and it is this tone you'll enjoy when her playing is featured in "O Holy Night" and "O Tannenbaum." The Holiday Brass Concert takes place at 10:15 a.m., 2:15 p.m. and 8 p.m. at Manchester United Methodist Church (129 Woods Mill Road, Manchester; 314-966-8671 or www.holidaybrass.com). Tickets are $19 to $21.
Tue., Dec. 7, 2010